Genome and Genomic Medicine Research

Genomics studies lead to new insights into disease and treatments

Genomics studies lead to new insights into disease and treatments

There are more than 20,000 genes formed by billions of combinations of four root genetic molecules (coding letters T, G, A, and C) in the human genome. Amazing new technologies sequence those letters or molecules and provide important details about our genetic makeup. Are we susceptible to a particular disease? Can we metabolize specific medications? Will secrets encoded in our DNA extend our lifespan? As researchers identify variations in the genetic code that make each of us different, and determine what the variations mean for health, these and other questions will be answered.

Scripps Genomic Medicine is using advanced genetic sequencing technologies to bridge the gap between discovery, translation and treatment. These studies provide an amazing opportunity to find underlying genetic causes for cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis and many other conditions.

To take advantage of this technology, Scripps Health formed Scripps Genomic Medicine (SGM). In collaboration with Scripps, SGM is building a massive database of patient samples in order to provide genotyping and genetic data storage. This information could help identify genes that preserve health or those that cause disease. This information will spur drug discovery and advance personalized medicine.

In collaboration with Scripps Clinic, Scripps Genomic Medicine created bio-repositories of various biological samples from patients suffering from cancers, migraines, Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other conditions. The data extracted from these samples could lead to new insights into disease and new treatments.

Even the best designed drugs don’t work on everyone. Often, our DNA will tell us whether we can metabolize a specific drug. Recent work has found genetic markers which indicate whether the blood thinner Plavix will work on specific patients. The ability to personalize drug treatment may be one of the most profound benefits of genomic medicine.